Priority status given to new Foynes-Limerick road scheme

Limerick City and County Council has commenced the procurement of Engineering Consultancy Services for a proposed new road linking the Port of Foynes in West Limerick with the M7/N18 at Limerick City.

The N69 National Secondary Road currently connects Foynes to Limerick along 32km of single carriageway. However, the Foynes to Limerick Road Improvement Scheme will provide improved access to the Port of Foynes and support the envisaged expansion of its capacity and usage as outlined in the government’s National Ports Policy 2013. Upgrading the road infrastructure to the Port of Foynes from Limerick is also a key recommendation in the Shannon Foynes Port Company master plan Vision 2041, published earlier this year.

Welcoming today’s announcement, Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council John Sheahan said: “This road scheme and the expansion of the Port of Foynes have the potential to support sustainable economic growth and deliver employment for Limerick and the Mid West Region. I acknowledge that this project is at a very early stage but I am heartened that despite the economic downturn that investment in new transport infrastructure continues to be made. Quality connectivity to our ports, airports and major urban areas is critical for all regions of Ireland.”

Limerick City and County Council, through the Mid West National Road Design Office, will manage the scheme.

According to Paul Crowe, Director, Travel & Transportation, Limerick City and County Council: “The first major stage in the process has commenced with the advertisement for consultants to progress the scheme through route selection, design and statutory procedures. It is expected that consultants will be appointed later this year with a preferred route selected in 2014. A major consultation process with the public, landowners and other key stakeholders will be undertaken.”